A Dorchester taqueria known for putting an Asian spin on Mexican favorites is making its way to Allston.
Umami Tsunami Taqueria is preparing to open a second location at 122 Brighton Avenue inside Novo Marketplace, bringing its classic Mexican fare and Asian-inspired fusion dishes to a new neighborhood. The restaurant will also be getting a slightly simpler name: Umami Taqueria (or “Ooh Mami,” as the team playfully calls it).
The Allston eatery is expected to open in about a month, according to co-owner Quang Nguyen, though the exact date will depend on the arrival and installation of equipment. Because Umami Taqueria joined the Novo Marketplace project later than some of the other tenants, it won’t be ready in time for the food hall’s grand opening on Saturday, September 12.
“For Novo, we’re bringing the same Mexican-Asian concept people know from Umami Tsunami, but with a more streamlined menu featuring our most popular items to better fit the fast-paced food hall vibe,” Nguyen told What Now Boston.
Nguyen owns the restaurant alongside his partner and chef, Elfida Barahona, whose Oaxacan roots are at the heart of the concept. The restaurant combines Barahona’s Mexican heritage with the Asian flavors and restaurant experience Nguyen has developed throughout his career in the industry.
That blend is also behind the restaurant’s upcoming rebrand. Nguyen said the move to Umami Taqueria is part of an effort to put a greater emphasis on the story and roots behind the food. The original Dorchester location will eventually be rebranded as Umami Taqueria as well, bringing both locations under the same name.
At the to-go-only Allston location, diners can expect familiar favorites from the Dorchester restaurant, including tacos made with homemade corn tortillas. A taco bar will also give guests the chance to build their own tacos. And while the menu may be a bit smaller, the fusion factor isn’t going anywhere. Expect dishes such as banh mi tacos, bulgogi tacos, and the restaurant’s wildly popular birria ramen.
“The fusion really represents the two of us. Oaxaca is the foundation, and the Asian influence gives it the Umami twist people have come to know us for,” explained Nguyen. “We’re excited to bring that story, along with our handmade tacos, birria favorites, and signature fusion dishes, to a new audience at Novo Marketplace.”
As the opening approaches, the restaurant plans to launch a four-part challenge for customers, with a QR code posted outside the restaurant allowing diners to unlock each challenge after making a purchase. Complete all four challenges, and participants will unlock special gifts and earn a spot on the “OG Board.”
Meanwhile, Novo Marketplace is already open ahead of its official grand opening on September 12. The celebration will spotlight current tenants including Blendy, Molly Tea, Ali’s Uyghur Kitchen, Lumi Rolls & Bowls, and other food and beverage concepts.
For the latest opening updates and menu sneak peeks, be sure to follow Umami Taqueria on Facebook and Instagram.
